When it comes to the Prescribing Safety Assessment, it’s completely understandable to feel some pressure. The PSA is a high‑stakes exam, and for some students it can feel daunting, especially when balancing revision alongside placements, lectures, and everything else that comes with life at medical school.
The good news is that stress around the PSA is manageable, and much of it comes down to preparation and knowing what to expect.
Know the exam format
One of the quickest ways to reduce anxiety is to understand what you’ll be asked to do on the day. The PSA has a clear structure, and being familiar with it removes much of the uncertainty. Familiarise yourself with the eight question types, the timing, and what each section is assessing. When fewer things come as a surprise, you can focus your attention on answering the questions rather than worrying about the format.
Focus on the most important data
In the exam you’ll be presented with clinical information, and your task is to identify what is relevant to safe prescribing. Practising this skill during revision means you are less likely to spend valuable time on exam day working out where to focus. With practice, it becomes easier to pick out the key details quickly and confidently.
Use the BNF
The British National Formulary (BNF) is an essential resource for the PSA, and you’re allowed to use it during the exam. The key is knowing how to navigate it efficiently, so it supports your decision‑making rather than slowing you down. Regular use during preparation helps ensure it feels familiar on the day.
Remember your calculations and conversions
Drug calculations and unit conversions appear regularly in the PSA and can cause difficulty if they’re not well practised. Including these in your revision routine helps build confidence and reduces the risk of avoidable mistakes.
Get comfortable with time pressure
The PSA is a two‑hour exam with 60 questions, and time management is a common challenge. The time pressure reflects real clinical practice, where prescribing decisions often need to be made promptly and safely. Practising under timed conditions can help you develop a steady pace and improve confidence.
Look after yourself
This part is easy to overlook during revision, but it makes a real difference. Your wellbeing affects both learning and performance. Try to sleep well, eat regularly, and take breaks. If exam stress starts to feel unmanageable, it’s important to speak to someone you trust, such as a friend, tutor, or member of university support staff.
Make the most of what BPS Assessment has to offer
The BPS Assessment Hub is designed to support PSA preparation. Our resources cover all eight question types and provide detailed feedback to help you understand both correct answers and common errors. If you want to practise under exam‑style conditions, the 60‑item practice paper can be completed in a two‑hour sitting, with feedback to guide further revision. You can explore our eLearning, practice papers, and free resources here.
The PSA is challenging, but it is an assessment that many students pass each year with steady preparation. Taking a structured approach and making use of available resources can help you feel more prepared. Feeling nervous is common, and it often reflects how much the outcome matters to you.
Watch the video
The British Pharmacological Society has created a short video that covers many of these points in a clear, accessible way. It can be a helpful addition to your preparation.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1dW7EuQJyog